Migraines are a neurological disorder characterized by frequent throbbing or excruciating headaches, nausea, and vomiting, as well as sensitivity to light, sound, and strong odors. Head pain is frequently unilateral, although it can sometimes be bilateral. The headache phase of a migraine is moderate to severe in severity, and physical activity generally aggravates the pain.
Aura affects one-third to one-fifth of migraine sufferers. It includes a brief period of visual abnormalities prior to the onset of the migraine. Some people may just have an aura with no subsequent headache, but this is quite unusual. While breakthroughs are being made to help migraine sufferers, the disease is still widely misunderstood. That’s why we have gathered these seven facts about migraines that you should be aware of.
1. Migraine is the world's third most common disease
Even if you don't have a migraine, you probably know someone who does. The condition affects 14.7 percent of the global population or one in every seven people. The condition affects around 39 million people in the United States alone. Chronic migraine (at least 15 headache days per month for three months, with more than half of them migraines) is less common, affecting roughly 2% of the population.
2. The majority of migraine sufferers do not experience an aura
Although it is common to hear that migraines are accompanied by visual disturbances such as flashing lights or fuzzy vision, these auras are extremely rare, affecting only around 10% of migraine sufferers. Furthermore, not all migraine headaches are unilateral or pulsing. If there are accompanying symptoms, such as nausea and light sensitivity, a headache that affects the entire head or feels like a tight band may be a migraine.
3. Migraines can have many different causes
Migraines are caused by a variety of factors that are unique to each individual. Certain foods or scents missed meals, changes in weather or barometric pressure, sleeping too much or too little, physical effort, and low blood sugar can trigger migraines in certain people. Stress can also cause migraines, although the pain usually begins after the stress has subsided.
4. Migraines may affect children and even newborns
The majority of migraine sufferers are between the ages of 25 and 55, however, children can also be affected. Reduced appetite, fussiness, and head tilt are early warning indicators of migraine in 4-month-old newborns up to preschool children. Dizziness, vehicle sickness, vertigo, and the sensation of movement when sitting or standing may occur in older children.
5. Women are more likely to have migraines
One explanation might be a relationship between hormonal swings and migraine incidence. For example, migraines are more prevalent in males than in females until adolescence. Moreover, women who suffer from migraines frequently report that the frequency and severity of their attacks increase after menstruation, menopause, or pregnancy.
6. Migraine is the most common cause of disability
Migraines are more than simply a mere discomfort. During an attack, 9 out of 10 people are unable to do routine activities or work. Severe migraines can be devastating, especially if they occur regularly. It is essential to get treatment if migraine symptoms are interfering with your ability to function normally at work as well as perform other duties at home or school. In this case, it is better to contact a neurologist and undergo professional treatment.
7. Migraines may be inherited
A family history of migraines is possible. The percentage of people who say they have at least one family member who also has migraines is between 80 and 90%. Additionally, one study discovered that if both parents suffer from migraines, their child's chance of developing the condition rises by 75%.
